Wednesday, April 16, 2014

As it's approaching that crazy Summer period when tourists flock to Universal Studios Hollywood in their thousands, I thought I'd pop along and check out what new film and TV treasures the archivists have dug out of storage to delight the theme park's visitors this season.

Authentic movie and TV memorabilia on display at

Universal Studios Hollywood

My last visit to the NBC Universal Experience attraction was in January earlier this year and I'm glad to say almost the entire selection of costumes, models, sketches and props had been refreshed with many new and exciting items from the worlds of comedy, science fiction, drama, animation, romance, history and more besides, both from the big and small screen.

One of the things I love the most about the NBC Universal Experience exhibit is the mix of old and new movies and shows, contemporary and classic pieces on display, like this lovely dress designed by Edith Head for Alfred Hitchcock's muse, Tippi Hedren.

Costume worn by Tippi Hedren as Marnie Edgar in Marnie

The actress wore this outfit as the titular 'Marnie' opposite Sean Connery in Alfred Hitchcock's 1964 movie about a habitual female thief with serious psychological issues.

Large mandible prop from Jaws

From romantic thrillers to dangers from the deep, and helping to set the scene in 1975's iconic horror movie, Jaws, for Robert Shaw's 'Sam Quint' shark hunter is this large jawbone of a shark prop.

Spirit animal props from Couples Retreat

Speaking of animals, this trio of wooden spirit animals were used in the 2009 comedy, Couples Retreat.

The wolf carving is used by Jon Favreau and Kristin Davis in the movie as they are pack animals, the donkey guide belongs to Vince Vaughn and Malin Akerman as they are both stubborn and the rabbit is for Kristen Bell and Jason Bateman's characters because they overcome obstacles in their way.

Universal Studios Tour 50th anniversary exhibit

Also included within the exhibit at the moment is a special display to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Universal's Studio Tour, with a few familiar faces, like this animatronic E.T., along for the ride to showcase some of the iconic rides and attractions from the theme park's storied history.

Costume worn by Ice Cube as James Payton

and original props from Ride Along

In addition to mementos from the past, the exhibit also had costumes and props from very latest movies, like the recent Ride Along comedy. In the film, security guard 'Ben Barber' played by Kevin Hart wants to impress his girlfriend's cop brother (Ice Cube) and goes on a ride along with him. Here's Ice Cube's police detective costume (designed by Sekinah Brown), plus Ben's Atlanta police academy acceptance letter and game controller featured in the movie.

This is just a selection of what's on offer at Universal Studios Hollywood from their cinematic and televisual vaults, so be sure to stick around for more discoveries, including:

Stay tuned in the days to come for even more photos of these costumes, models and props in more detail for you all to enjoy if you can't make it to the L.A. based theme park in person.

I always think people discount this attraction when they visit, preferring the excitement of the rollercoasters and simulator rides, but when the public does discover this treasure trove of delights it's always interesting to see and hear their reactions when they glimpse something from a favourite film or TV show.